Media release
North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) strongly supports the work of the Yoorrook Justice Commission in its formal truth-telling process into historical and ongoing injustices experienced by First Peoples in Victoria.
The Commission is chaired by Wergaia/Wamba Wamba Elder, Professor Eleanor Bourke AM.
As an organisation that commissions and funds health care, NWMPHN works closely with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations to develop and deliver care for First Nations people and communities. We also work with general practices and other mainstream health organisations to improve culturally appropriate and safe practices.
Central to this process is the recognition of the ongoing, intergenerational trauma caused by colonisation and the occupation of unceded Country.
In line with the principles set down in its Reconciliation Action Plan, NWMPHN endorses the Walk for Truth, which sees people led by Kerrupmara/Gunditjmara man and Yoorrook Deputy Chair Commissioner Travis Lovett walking from Portland to Parliament House in Naarm/Melbourne.
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The Walk will take place from 25 May to 18 June. It includes 17 sections the public can join.
“The symbolism of this event is immense,” says Christopher Carter, NWMPHN’s Chief Executive Officer.
“Portland is where colonisation began in Victoria. And the walk will end at Parliament House – a centre of power in which, we all hope, sit people who will bring about meaningful action for reconciliation arising from the Yoorrook Commission’s findings.”
Mr Carter said a contingent of NWMPHN staff will be among those joining in on the final day of the Walk for Truth on Wednesday, 18 June 2025.
Participants will walk with Commissioner Lovett and other members of First Nations communities, starting at the Shrine of Remembrance and ending at Spring St.
“As an organisation, we have always worked with Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders to create equitable and accessible health care,” said Mr Carter.
“We have never been reluctant to stand with, and advocate for, First Peoples. And we continue to do so now.”
ENDS
↓ You can download a copy of the media release here.
